Fresh start for Louise Woodward

LOUISE Woodward is putting her past behind her to begin a new life and a new career. She has begun training as a solicitor, hoping to specialise in commercial law. Louise, 25, gained a law degree and later took a legal practice course at Manchester Metropolitan University.

LOUISE Woodward is putting her past behind her to begin a new life and a new career.

She has begun training as a solicitor, hoping to specialise in commercial law. Louise, 25, gained a law degree in London and later took a legal practice course at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Now she has a two-year contract with Oldham law firm North Ainley Halliwell.

Louise said her experiences in America - where she was convicted of killing a baby in her care seven years ago - had encouraged her to think about a legal career.

She said: "I do want to learn how to help other people. I'm very happy to be starting my career here. It's a very well-respected firm." Louise was convicted of the second degree murder of baby Matthew Eappen while working as an au pair.

Her conviction was later reduced to involuntary manslaughter on appeal and she was allowed to return home to Elton, Cheshire, after 279 days in jail.

John Ainley, senior partner at North Ainley Halliwell, said Louise was "a bright, motivated law student who is keen to be given the opportunity to qualify and practise as a commercial lawyer."